“Tell the king of Judah, who sent you to inquire of the LORD, ‘This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says concerning the words you heard…’?”
The full verse · 2 Kings 22:18 · KJV
But to the of which you to of the , thus shall ye to him, Thus the of , As touching the which thou hast ;
Why It Was Asked
The purpose behind the questionKing Josiah sent his servants to inquire of the LORD to understand the implications of the discovered Book of the Law, seeking divine guidance amid a spiritual crisis. The question was genuine, motivated by repentance and reform, aiming to discern God’s will and avert impending judgment (2 Kings 22:13-14). This fits the narrative of covenant renewal and reform.
The Response
What Scripture recordsHuldah the prophetess responded to the king’s servants with a message from the LORD, declaring judgment for Judah’s disobedience but mercy for Josiah because his heart was responsive and humble (2 Kings 22:15-20). She conveyed both warning and hope, affirming the authenticity and seriousness of the king’s inquiry.
The Bigger Picture
Where this fits in God's storyWiersbe emphasizes Josiah’s sincere heart in seeking God’s will, noting that Huldah’s prophecy provided both warning and assurance of peace due to his responsive spirit. Matthew Henry highlights the seriousness of the king’s inquiry, showing how God honors humble examination of His Word. The servants’ question to Huldah was pivotal, revealing God’s judgment yet mercy. This passage challenges believers to approach God’s Word with humility and earnestness, trusting His faithful promises (2 Kings 22:18-20). Both commentators remind us that God’s Word remains a lamp to our feet, calling us to repentance and faithfulness.
Modern believers should emulate Josiah’s humility and diligence in seeking God’s Word and guidance (Psalm 119:105). The passage warns against complacency and disobedience, urging repentance and reform (Acts 3:19). It encourages consulting God through Scripture and prayer, trusting His promises, and embracing the transforming power of His truth (James 1:22).
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Keep questioning
“Go and inquire of the LORD for me and for the people and for all Judah about what is written in this book that has been found?”
“Pick up Naboth’s body and throw him on that plot, in accordance with the word of the LORD?”
“I will tell you what the Arameans have done to us. They know we are starving; so they have left the camp to hide in the countryside, thinking, ‘They will surely come out, and then we will take them alive and get into the city.’?”
“I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the LORD his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy?”